Shows
Train Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 364: A Pause While I Become A StudentIn this episode, Stacy shares why she's taking a winter break from the podcast after seven years of weekly episodes. She talks about stepping into the role of student again—traveling, taking lessons in new disciplines, and learning alongside the horses she's trained. Stacy also explains how watching her horses make their own connections, like Willow linking a dressage exercise to the spin, deepens her understanding and shapes her next steps. Key takeaways: – Why taking time to learn from a new perspective can strengthen your partnership with your horse – How seasoned horses often reveal connec...
2025-12-0303 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 358: The Preschool of Horsemanship—It Starts with CuriosityThe earliest lessons in a horse's life often echo through every stage that follows—and understanding them can transform how you work with horses of any age. In this first episode of the Preschool of Horsemanship series, Stacy Westfall shares what her foal Whisper taught her about curiosity, space, and timing, and how those same principles apply whether you're leading, lunging, or riding. What begins as a foal's natural curiosity becomes the key to creating willing, connected responses throughout a horse's lifetime. Key takeaways: – Curiosity is the foundation of learning for both horse and rider – Steppi...
2025-10-1516 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 357: Aging, Physical Challenges, and the Stories We ChooseIn this episode, Stacy Westfall explores how the challenges of age and physical effort intersect with the stories we tell ourselves. From running a 10K at 51 to coaching riders of all ages, she reveals how separating mental resistance from physical reality opens new possibilities—both in the saddle and in life. Key takeaways: – The body presents real challenges, but the mind often adds hidden limits – Physical strain can reveal the power of choosing a different story – Decision points become clearer when you separate thoughts from facts – Growth is possible at every decade, but only if yo...
2025-09-2417 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 356: Why Concentrated Moments Teach Lasting LessonsIn this episode, Stacy Westfall unpacks three key topics that shape both riding and life: goal setting without overwhelm, success defined from within, and the mindset you bring before the moment begins. Key takeaways: What it means to set a goal without letting it take over your thinking Why measuring success goes beyond ribbons, scores, or outside opinions How the mindset you choose beforehand shifts the entire experience Why concentrated moments magnify lessons already present in daily rides This episode examines how compressed experiences reveal the deeper...
2025-09-1732 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 355: Strategy Isn't the Starting PointWhat makes some riders succeed where others stall out? In this episode, Stacy Westfall unpacks Tony Robbins' model of state, story, and strategy and shows how lasting progress comes from more than just finding the right plan. She explains how success often depends on the unseen layers that shape choices in the arena and beyond. Key takeaways: – Chasing strategies while ignoring state and story leads to frustration and stalled progress – The story you tell yourself directly colors how you interpret and apply strategy – Your emotional state sets the tone for both your ride and your h...
2025-09-1013 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 354: How Support Feels Different Than CorrectionWhen riders add layers of communication, the line between offering support and making a correction can blur. In this episode, Stacy Westfall shows how the same physical aids—pick up, guide, release—can create very different experiences for the horse depending on the rider's intent and timing. Key takeaways: – What makes steady support feel so different from a late correction – Why the same aid can either build confidence or create tension – How horses reveal whether they're guided or corrected – What riders must notice to make guidance clear This episode explores how horses inter...
2025-09-0331 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 353: When Cues Become ConversationsIn this episode, Stacy Westfall explores how a simple cue system can evolve into a conversation with your horse. Through real examples from her own riding and her students, Stacy shows how anticipation, contradictions, and "mistakes" often signal effort and learning rather than resistance. Key takeaways: What looks like a problem may actually be proof your horse is trying to apply what you've taught Anticipation isn't something to eliminate, but a tool that can reveal missing pieces in your cue system Strengthening one cue often exposes weaknesses in another—this is part of balanced communication Viewing fe...
2025-08-2734 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 352: Survival Riding—What It Looks Like and Why It HappensIn this episode, Stacy Westfall explains how survival riding develops, why it often goes unrecognized, and what keeps riders stuck in that cycle. Drawing on stories from her own childhood as well as patterns she sees in adult riders, Stacy reveals the two main roots of survival riding and why avoiding the uncomfortable work only makes the problem grow. Key takeaways: – Survival riding often begins with not knowing what you don't know, leaving riders unprepared for escalation – Guilt and fear in adult riders can keep them from practicing the very skills that would prevent runaway mome...
2025-08-2040 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 351: Why 'Kind of Working' Feeds DissatisfactionWhen things are "kind of working," it's tempting to stay the course—even if you're not fully satisfied. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores the hidden resistance that keeps riders from making changes, even when they know it could improve safety, connection, or performance. Drawing from examples across different riding levels, Stacy reveals why rocking the boat feels harder when nothing is terribly wrong…and why that's exactly when change matters most. Key takeaways: – Feeling dissatisfied but resisting change often comes from fearing the discomfort it will create—both for you and your horse – Small, untracked...
2025-08-1343 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 350: How Does the Training Ever Work to Stop a Spook?In this episode, Stacy Westfall offers three distinct ways to think about how horses learn to handle surprise. Drawing from her experiences with horses like Willow, she explains how layered training builds connection, responsiveness, and the ability to recover quickly when the unexpected happens. Key takeaways: A horse's recovery depends on the quality of connection already built through shared attention What may feel like micromanagement at first becomes the seamless responsiveness of an experienced team Rhythm teaches predictability, but random prepares the horse for real-life surprises Horses can be trained to handle inconsistencies—not by av...
2025-08-0636 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 346: How Can I Reward My Horse Without Stopping the Flow of the Ride?If you've ever hesitated mid-ride, wondering how to acknowledge your horse without losing momentum, you're not alone. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores the often-overlooked skill of pausing in motion—a subtle shift that turns mechanical movements into a connected dance between horse and rider. Key takeaways: – Long pauses work in early training, but can unintentionally disrupt rhythm and clarity – A well-timed pause within the movement builds engagement and subtle responsiveness – Push and pull energies are essential, but the space between them creates true connection – Learning to pause without stopping allows your horse to s...
2025-07-0918 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 345: 4 Reasons Riders Don't Teach FocusMost riders want a focused horse—but many unknowingly skip the steps required to develop it. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores four common reasons riders don't actively teach focus, and how this omission affects connection, performance, and safety. Key takeaways: – Some riders don't believe focus is teachable—or even possible—and assume it's just a fixed trait – Many confuse physical obedience with mental engagement, ignoring signs of distraction – "Good enough" behavior often hides a lack of real focus, which unravels under pressure – Riders frequently wait until the horse is overwhelmed before trying to teach...
2025-07-0237 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 344: Ask December You: The Time Travel Trick for Better DecisionsChecking in on your goals mid-year might feel uncomfortable—especially if you've lost track of them or suspect you're not where you hoped to be. But that discomfort holds valuable clues. In this episode, Stacy Westfall shares why she used to resist mid-year reviews, what finally changed her mind, and how looking honestly at where you are now can realign you with what matters most. In this episode: Discover why forgetting your goals or avoiding progress checks signals a deeper problem with your approach Learn the difference between changing your plan because it got hard versus fi...
2025-06-2535 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 343: Why "Almost Right" Will Bring Less TensionStriving for precision too early in training often backfires—not because correctness is wrong, but because perfection adds pressure. In this episode, Stacy shares how choosing to leave something slightly off, or "almost right," can actually lead to greater clarity and softer communication. Using a real-time groundwork session with her mare Luna, Stacy illustrates how intentional imbalance builds understanding without triggering tension. Key takeaways: – Aiming for perfect balance too soon often creates tension in both horse and rider – Allowing small, chosen "mistakes" can give horses space to problem-solve – Overcorrecting sends mixed signals and creates...
2025-06-1819 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 339: Training with Energy: Preparing Horses for Real-World ChallengesRecorded from her truck at a horse show, Stacy Westfall explores the critical but often overlooked concept of energy management between horse and rider. She observes that many riders fail to prepare their horses for the inevitable energy fluctuations they'll encounter in new environments, whether at shows or on trails. Key takeaways: External energy sources (flapping tents, other horses, tractors) and internal energy (rider nervousness, horse excitement) create an energetic environment that many riders mistakenly label as "problem behavior" when their horse responds Training at home rarely includes deliberate practice with higher energy levels, leaving horses...
2025-05-2119 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 338: The Mind-Body Connection at Tricky Trail CrossingsStacy shares insights from her first off-property trail ride with Ember, revealing a critical moment where riders unknowingly teach their horses problematic behaviors. By identifying the exact instant when most riders make a fundamental mistake at water crossings, Stacy demonstrates how arena training directly transfers to trail success. Key takeaways: When a horse hesitates at obstacles like mud or water, is "go now" REALLY what you want to say? Arena work that develops nuanced communication between horse and rider enables successful navigation of trail challenges Maintaining consistent guidance when horses encounter new situations prevents confusion, unlike t...
2025-05-1416 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 335: The Rider's Body – When Your Body Tells a Different Story (Part 2)Stacy Westfall explores the hidden conversation happening between riders and horses—beyond conscious cues. Using the analogy of learning to float while swimming, she reveals how riders can unintentionally contradict their own instructions through subtle physical signals. In this episode: Discover why your horse reads your tension, breathing patterns, and hormone shifts as clearly as your intentional aids Learn to distinguish between helpful awareness and counterproductive anxiety by recognizing when your body is communicating mixed signals Understand why even experienced riders must consciously evaluate both their horse's readiness and their own ph...
2025-04-1623 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 332: The Horse's Mind – From Instinct to Intention (Part 2)In this episode, Stacy explores how horses experience emotion—and more importantly, how they can learn to regulate it. Through stories, training examples, and thoughtful reflection, she illustrates how emotional elasticity allows horses to pause instead of panic, and process instead of simply react. Listeners will learn how to recognize a horse's natural default state, how that state influences outward behavior, and how training can help develop more thoughtful, responsive equine partners. Key takeaways: – The difference between raw instinct and thoughtful responses – What emotional regulation looks like in motion – How temperament plays in...
2025-03-2625 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 331: The Horse's Mind: What Their Body Tells You About Their Thinking (Part 1)A horse's body reveals more than just physical movement—it reflects their thoughts, emotions, and understanding. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores how a horse's behavior can show both their level of knowledge and their maturity. She shares why interpreting the horse's mind requires stepping outside of our automatic reactions and learning to see things from their perspective. Key takeaways: – How a horse's physical reactions reveal their level of understanding – The difference between confusion, disagreement, and emotional reactions – Why your horse might test a cue—and what their response tells you – How your own energy a...
2025-03-1930 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 330: The Horse's Body: Observation vs. InterpretationWhen your horse hesitates, pins its ears, or struggles with a movement, what's really happening? It's easy to jump to conclusions—assuming resistance, pain, or a training gap. But the key to true understanding lies in separating observation from interpretation. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores the importance of neutral fact-finding when assessing your horse's body, why riders often misread behaviors, and how small mindset shifts can lead to major breakthroughs. Key Takeaways: We naturally assign meaning to behaviors. Riders often assume their horse "won't" do something when the truth may be that they can't—yet. Seei...
2025-03-1222 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 329: Misdiagnosed? A New Way to Diagnose Riding ChallengesWhen training your horse, are you treating symptoms or addressing the real issue? In this episode, Stacy Westfall explains why accurate diagnosis is always the first step. She shares insights from decades of horse training, revealing how misdiagnosing a problem can lead to ineffective solutions, frustration, and even new challenges. Key takeaways: Misdiagnosing a training issue can lead to solutions that create new problems instead of resolving the root cause. Elite horses often mask training flaws, making it easy to apply ineffective methods to the average horse. Identifying the right starting point leads to improvement across...
2025-03-0520 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 328: The Moment is Gone (But That's Not a Problem)Not every ride goes as planned—but what happens after the ride often determines whether you improve or stay stuck. In this episode, Stacy Westfall breaks down a "less than perfect" training session with her horse Ember, sharing how experienced riders turn these moments into stepping stones instead of setbacks. Key takeaways: Progress follows a cycle—planning, execution, evaluation, and adjustment—not a straight upward path. Understanding this cycle helps riders stay focused and adaptable. Training isn't linear—horses don't improve in a straight line, and recognizing this helps riders end their sessions with confidence, not frustrat...
2025-02-2631 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 327: The Recipe for Success: Balancing Structure and Intuition in Horse TrainingThis episode tackles the challenge many riders face when trying to balance structured training plans with intuitive horsemanship. Stacy Westfall uses an unexpected cooking analogy to demonstrate how mastering any skill requires both systematic planning and gut-level awareness. Key takeaways: Strategic time investment in foundational training during off-seasons creates both immediate progress and long-term flexibility Managing multiple horses at different training stages requires distinct approaches, from intensive skill-building to maintenance work Traditional planning tools reveal scheduling conflicts and opportunities that even experienced trainers miss when relying on memory alone The episode demonstrates how riders can...
2025-02-1925 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 326: The Physical Expression of Your Dream: Beyond Words Like 'Trust' and 'Enjoy'Do you find yourself using words like "trust" and "enjoy" when describing your horse training goals, but struggle to translate these concepts into action? You're not alone. Many riders grapple with the gap between their aspirations and day-to-day training decisions. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores how to transform abstract horse training concepts into physical, observable actions. Key takeaways: Dreams remain intangible until we define what they look like in real-world situations Common phrases in horse training often mask deeper, more specific intentions The path from aspiration to action requires questioning your own assumptions Through...
2025-02-1218 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 325: The Missing Link: Why Some Keep Going and Others Burn OutWhat if your fuel—not your effort—is the problem? Stacy Westfall shares a surprising lesson in persistence, revealing why sheer determination isn't enough—and what actually sustains lasting effort. Understand why intense effort alone often leads to diminishing returns—and what to do instead. Explore the subtle but crucial difference between belief-driven and willpower-driven action. Learn how to recognize when you're operating from belief versus raw determination. This episode uncovers the essential relationship between belief and effective action, providing riders with practical tools for achieving their goals—without exhausting themselves in the process.
2025-02-0517 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 324: Heart and Goal: Your Dreams Made VisibleWhen riders set goals, they often strip away the emotional elements in an attempt to make them more "professional" or achievable. Stacy Westfall challenges this approach through a personal story of how a devastating show ring mistake unexpectedly launched her bridleless riding career. Removing emotions from goals may feel safer and more clinical, but those very emotions—both positive and challenging—signal that you're pursuing something meaningful You can feel hopelessly far from success, yet just a few perspective shifts can completely transform your path forward Community matters deeply in horsemanship, whether found in show environments, boarding barns, trai...
2025-01-2918 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 323: "I Feel Behind" - And What To Do About ItDo you catch yourself saying "I'm behind" so often it feels like a permanent state of being? That nagging sense of always playing catch-up can follow us from the house to the barn, affecting everything from daily tasks to our horsemanship goals. Join Stacy as she shares her journey from thinking "being behind" was unchangeable to discovering a path toward relief. Key takeaways: Your body sends clear warning signals about feeling behind - do you know yours? While switching plans mid-execution might feel like relief, but Stacy shares it often creates a pattern that shows...
2025-01-2220 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallWhy Smart People Abandon Good GoalsWhen pursuing a meaningful goal or implementing a yearly theme, three specific challenges consistently emerge that can derail your progress. Join Stacy Westfall as she breaks down these obstacles and provides actionable solutions for navigating them successfully. Key takeaways: Our brains are wired to resist change in predictable ways, but understanding this resistance reveals surprisingly simple solutions for getting started on any goal, no matter how daunting it seems. The early stages of implementing change require a different approach than most people expect. Stacy shares how to use your brain's natural reward system (what she playfully...
2025-01-1518 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Missing Step: Why Your Goals Need a ThemeDo you find yourself cringing when someone asks about your goals? Or maybe you've set goals before, but they felt hollow and meaningless? You're not alone, and you might just be missing a crucial step. Join Stacy Westfall as she reveals how adding a yearly theme can transform your approach to goal setting. In this episode: Discover why traditional goals often fall short and how themes can fill the gap Learn how to make your goals more meaningful, especially if you value connection and relationship Get access to a simple worksheet that includes:...
2025-01-0821 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Gift of Seeing: Finding Magic in the Rewatch"If I could snap my fingers and give you a gift..." In this episode, Stacy shares what she considers one of the most powerful tools in any rider's journey. Drawing insights from the fascinating way children naturally approach familiar content, this episode reveals how riders can turn video from an overwhelming experience into a journey of discovery. Through practical tips and encouraging insights, Stacy breaks down the three stages riders typically move through and offers guidance for each phase. Whether listeners are still avoiding the camera or ready to deepen their understanding, this episode offers a...
2024-12-2516 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThree Revealing Behaviors: When Horses Want to PlayIn this episode Stacy explores the nuanced concept of play in horses, identifying three distinct types of playful behavior: possessed play, repressed play, and reactive play. She challenges listeners to consider playfulness on a spectrum, both in themselves and their horses. Stacy highlights the importance of understanding and managing a horse's playful energy. She argues against two extremes: constant, unfocused play and complete obedience without any playfulness. The key is finding a balance where horses can experience play or 'blow off steam' while still being responsive to their handler's commands. Through personal examples, she demonstrates...
2024-12-0426 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallWhy are you thankful for horses? How have horses changed your life?In this episode, Stacy Westfall shares a personal tip on the value of re-listening to podcasts, courses, and books to deepen learning and retention, especially when paired with implementing lessons in between. She introduces the replay of a special Thanksgiving-themed episode that features listener-submitted reflections on why they are thankful for horses. Originally aired two years ago, this heartfelt episode highlights messages from around the world about how horses bring joy, connection, and personal growth to their lives. Listeners share powerful insights, describing horses as sources of peace, strength, and purpose, as well as companions in triumphs...
2024-11-2737 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallNew is Always New: Why Experience Doesn't Eliminate UncertaintyStacy Westfall explores a common misconception in horse training: that professionals don't experience uncertainty or caution when facing new situations. Through parallel stories of her hesitation at a coffee shop and a horse encountering a trailer ramp, she reveals that professionals absolutely feel cautious, careful, and mindful – they just accept these feelings as a natural part of the process. What sets professionals apart isn't an absence of uncertainty, but rather their approach: they do everything possible to prepare, then rely on "educated guesses" to bridge the remaining gap. Stacy illustrates how everyone – even experts – faces resistance to new situ...
2024-11-2018 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 313: Preventing Secondary Reactions: Preparing Your Horse for SuccessIn this episode, Stacy Westfall opens with an update on her current horses, and then introduces the main topic of how to train for something 'before you need it.' Stacy discusses her approach to training Ember, a highly athletic and sensitive young horse she describes as "a lot of horse." Using the analogy of a sports car versus a luxury car, she explains how different horses require different handling while still aiming for a balanced "middle" response. Stacy emphasizes the importance of not denying a horse's natural characteristics but rather working with them constructively. She focuses...
2024-11-1329 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallIs Your Horse Seeing Contradictions? Helping Your Horse UnderstandIn this episode, Stacy explores the concept of recognizing and embracing contradictions in horse training, sharing insights from a recent experience with her horse, Luna. Luna has started anticipating spins during trot circles, which could be viewed as a problem, but Stacy sees it as a potential training advantage. She explains how anticipation can create a draw toward certain movements, making them feel more like the horse's choice rather than a command. Stacy considers two solutions: changing the pre-spin routine or separating trot circles from the spin entirely. However, she chooses a third approach—embracing Luna's anticipation as a si...
2024-11-0625 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Silent Conversation: Three Hidden Challenges in Understanding Horse LanguageIn this episode, Stacy Westfall explores three key challenges in reading horse body language and how misinterpretation can affect horse-human relationships. Unlike human communication, which combines words and body language, horses rely solely on physical expression, making accurate interpretation crucial. The first challenge involves understanding that horses naturally fall into two categories: stoic (calm, less expressive) and animated (energetic, expressive). The second challenge occurs when horses become well-trained, often appearing less animated but not necessarily less engaged or emotional. Westfall uses her horse Newt as an example, showing how a horse can maintain its personality while developing focus.
2024-10-3017 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallWhen Your Horse Disagrees: Managing Conflicting ViewpointsHorse owners often encounter situations where our horses seem to "disagree" with our choices or training methods. This can trigger feelings of conflict and uncertainty within us, leaving us unsure of how to move forward. However, Stacy Westfall suggests that rather than seeing these disagreements as problems, we should view them as opportunities to develop greater empathy and understanding. Stacy shares her own experiences of receiving "negative feedback" from her horse, Enzo, and how she responds with a sense of amusement and compassion, much like a parent understanding the frustrations of a young child. She encourages listeners...
2024-10-2321 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallBack to the Basics: The Dance of Internal and External FocusIn this episode, Stacy shares a unique perspective on foundational skills in horsemanship. She explains how this viewpoint can reveal subtle imbalances and growth opportunities. By stripping away advanced techniques to reassess basics, Stacy demonstrates how simple exercises provide insights into the animal's mind and emotions. The episode centers on the dual focus required in effective horsemanship: the rider's internal awareness (intuition, observations, curiosity) and external observation of the horse (focus, body language, responses). Stacy emphasizes that mastering this approach isn't just about physical techniques, but about cultivating a mindset of constant observation and adjustment. This episode offers valuable...
2024-10-1623 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallMaintaining Momentum: Riding Through Life's InterruptionsHere's a cleaned-up version: This episode explores the challenge of maintaining momentum when faced with interruptions in your horse training plans. Whether you're a planner or a go-with-the-flow rider, you'll find valuable insights for keeping your equestrian dreams on track. Using personal experiences and insights from students, Stacy covers: • The impact of interruptions at different stages of goal pursuit • Emotional responses to setbacks and the urge to change plans • Strategies for handling interruptions and maintaining focus • The importance of clearly defining goals for better adaptability • Transferring momentum to alternative actions when origi...
2024-10-0922 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThrough Their Eyes: A Horse's View on Group RidingIn this episode, Stacy addresses a listener's question about riding horses in groups larger than two. She outlines six key points for evaluating and preparing a horse for trail riding, including at-home and on-trail assessments, making predictions, communicating with other riders, and self-evaluation during the ride. Stacy emphasizes the importance of understanding the horse's perspective, highlighting common misconceptions that lead riders to misjudge their horses' reactions when riding with others. She contrasts proactive riding, where the rider shapes the horse's energy preemptively, with reactive riding, which only addresses issues after they arise. The podcast underscores...
2024-10-0228 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallListener Q&A: Enhancing the Relationship between a Novice Rider and a Capable HorseIn this podcast episode, Stacy Westfall responds to a listener question from Laura, who has a highly trained and well-behaved horse named Parker. Laura says, "he's just so good. And me being new, I kind of wonder what I can offer him." Stacy offers four angles for Laura to consider: 1. Use Parker's excellent behavior as a model to study and apply to her other horses. 2. Avoid the "infatuation" or "awestruck" phase, and instead focus on observing Parker's individuality and differences. 3. Recognize that training is not just about correction or reprimand, but also about supporting and...
2024-09-2518 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Anticipation Paradox: When Good Training Creates New ChallengesIn this episode, Stacy addresses a common issue in horse training: anticipation. A listener from Denmark asks how to handle a horse that performs learned exercises without waiting for cues. Stacy explains that anticipation is initially a positive sign of successful training, likening it to the first half of a rainbow arc. However, as training progresses, excessive anticipation can become problematic. Stacy advises seeing this as a sign of clear leadership and effective teaching, rather than a failure. She introduces the concept of "teeter-totter" training, where the goal is to balance the horse's eagerness for upward transitions (like...
2024-09-1118 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 303: Consistency is Key: Transitioning from Arena to TrailStacy shares insights on transitioning horses from arena training to trail riding. She emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than avoiding them. The podcast highlights the differences between controlled arena environments and unpredictable trail settings. Stacy explains her approach to introducing her new horse, Luna, to trail riding, starting by leading her and gradually testing her responses to manufactured challenges. 5 key takeaways: 1. Embrace challenges: Viewing problems or questions as opportunities for growth is crucial in horse training. Avoiding challenges can lead to limitations in where and how you can...
2024-09-0429 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallWords Matter: How Language Shapes Your Equestrian ExperienceStacy Westfall discusses the overuse of the phrase "I'm sorry" in everyday situations and how it relates to horsemanship. She recounts observing excessive apologizing in a workshop setting and at grocery stores, questioning whether these apologies are genuine expressions of remorse or habitual responses. Westfall emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotional defaults and how they impact interactions with horses. She encourages riders to examine why they apologize during lessons or while sharing arena space, suggesting that many of these apologies are unnecessary and may stem from misplaced feelings of inadequacy. Westfall advocates for clearer communication and...
2024-08-2833 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 300: The Challenge of Choosing ChangeIn this milestone 300th episode, Stacy Westfall explores the challenges and benefits of choosing change. She reflects on her journey of creating weekly content for over a decade and how it has shaped her perspective on change. Stacy discusses the constant nature of change and the importance of distinguishing between changes we can control and those we can't. She shares personal experiences, including breeding her horse Gabby after losing another mare, to illustrate how choosing change can build resilience and prepare us for unexpected changes. Key points: Change is constant and inevitable, even when we try...
2024-08-1425 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallMimicry's Limits: How Horses Move Beyond This And You Can TooThis podcast explores the crucial difference between mimicking and understanding in learning processes, using examples from horse training and human skill acquisition. Stacy emphasizes that while mimicking is often the initial step in learning, it's merely the beginning. True mastery comes from developing a deeper understanding of the 'why' behind actions and behaviors. Stacy shares how young horses, like Lefty, start by copying behaviors without fully comprehending their meanings. Similarly, humans may imitate training techniques without grasping their underlying principles. This superficial approach can lead to incomplete learning and ineffective application of skills. Stacy stresses...
2024-07-3122 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallMarking Mistakes: Why Non-Reactivity Matters in Horse TrainingStacy Westfall discusses marking behavior as a fundamental aspect of horse training. She explains how this technique, often used in clicker training, can quickly reinforce desired behaviors, or can accidentally mark a mistake as well. Stacy explains the powerful tool horses use with each other of simply not reacting, and why it works so well in a feedback loop. Key points include: The introduction of orphan foals Lefty and Stormy to an adult horse, Gabby Gabby's subtle communication and non-reactive responses to the foals' behavior The significance of not overreacting to accidental touches or movements...
2024-07-2417 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallAllowing Choices: Empowering Your Horse's MindStacy Westfall introduces the concept of "allowing" versus "making" in horse training. She emphasizes that both approaches have their place, with "making" including positive actions like guiding or shaping behavior. The power of allowing is highlighted as a tool to influence a horse's mind and encourage desired behaviors. Stacy uses the example of teaching a horse to slow down. She first asks the horse to go, potentially "making" them if necessary, then allows them to slow down. This method teaches horses to seek opportunities to slow down and engages both "hot" and "cold" temperaments. There...
2024-07-1026 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallPredictable vs Unpredictable: From 'Oh This Again' to 'Oh, I See It There!'In this episode, Stacy discusses the importance of addressing predictable problems in horse training before tackling unpredictable ones. She argues that focusing on known issues is more effective, as it allows for better planning and addresses both the horse's and rider's thought patterns. Stacy emphasizes that riders often ignore or make excuses for predictable problems, making it challenging to choose to address them. She encourages riders to examine their own thought processes when facing recurring issues with their horses, as this self-awareness can lead to more effective solutions. Stacy illustrates her points with examples ranging from basic...
2024-07-0318 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallYou are Invited: Two Invitations Horses Offer RidersIn this podcast episode, Stacy Westfall introduces the concept of viewing a horse's behavior as an "invitation" that riders can choose to accept or decline. She explains that horses often present two types of invitations to riders: - Emotional invitations: When a horse becomes anxious, jumpy, or displays a particular emotional state, it can be seen as an invitation for the rider to join that emotional state. - Training invitations: Horses may also invite riders to use certain aids or respond in specific ways during training or riding. For example, a lazy horse might invite the r...
2024-06-1914 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Power of Touch: Building Connection Through ContactIn this episode, Stacy emphasizes the importance of establishing contact with horses in order to achieve connection. Contact refers to physical touch, whether direct or through tools like reins or whips. Connection, on the other hand, has two meanings: the flow of energy through the horse's body in dressage, and the relationship bond between horse and human. Through examples with her foals, show horses, and dressage horses, Stacy illustrates how contact precedes connection. Key takeaways: With foals, she uses scratches to build positive associations with touch. For sensitive show horses, resetting cues with firmer contact ca...
2024-06-0518 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEpisode 283: Switching Gears: Mastering Multiple Roles with Your HorseThis podcast episode discusses the dual roles riders embody: the supportive advocate and the accountable coach. The challenge arises when riders need to switch between these roles depending on the situation with their horse. Using personal anecdotes and analogies, Stacy illustrates how these roles manifest in real-life scenarios, such as encouraging a horse to canter in a confined space or making decisions while trail riding. Drawing parallels between sports coaching and horse training, she elucidates the challenges riders face in pushing their horses beyond their comfort zones while maintaining a supportive rapport. By sharing personal experiences and...
2024-04-1728 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallRiding Towards Understanding: the Virtual Tevis Cup ChallengeIn this episode, Stacy Westfall explores the power of goal-setting and learning in layers, using her own experiences and the upcoming Virtual Tevis Cup as examples. She explores how breaking down big goals into smaller, achievable tasks can propel us toward our ultimate dreams., discussing how seemingly unrelated goals can complement each other. The Virtual Tevis Cup serves as a focal point, challenging listeners to rethink their capabilities and embrace new opportunities for growth, even in unexpected areas. Stacy emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, learning from mistakes, and maintaining a community-driven approach to equine endeavors. If yo...
2024-04-1024 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallGratitude Amidst Adversity: Caring for Orphaned FoalsStacy Westfall shares a deeply personal journey of unexpected challenges and gratitude in her latest podcast episode. Following the sudden loss of her husband's mare Lucy, who left behind a ten-day-old foal named Lefty, Stacy found herself unexpectedly caring for two orphaned foals. She adopted another foal, Stormy, from Last Chance Corral to raise alongside Lefty, leading to a whirlwind of emotions and physical demands. Through this experience, Stacy emphasizes the importance of embracing contrasts in life. Despite the exhaustion and concern of caring for the foals, she finds moments of rest and contentment. Stacy draws parallels...
2024-03-2723 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Pitfalls of Regret: Tracing Its Effects on Thought PatternsIn this episode, you will hear a segment from a recent Zoom call where Stacy celebrates a student's first horse show experience. Within this conversation, three key themes emerge: the show as an evaluation of training, the challenge of riding within a structure, and the subtle presence of regret. Topics include: How regret can sneak in during good times Why this thought pattern is destructive Judging your past decisions Intentional challenge or life's 'pop quiz' Trail riding challenges This episode highlights the subtle way that thinking patterns impact our future choices.
2024-03-2018 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallRushing Forward: Overcoming the temptation to rushIn this episode, Stacy shares a challenging moment she very much wants to rush through. Drawing parallels between human behavior and equine tendencies, Stacy emphasizes that rushing is not merely a physical action but a way of thinking that can impact emotions. Using her expertise in horse training, she provides insights into how rushing manifests in both riders and horses, affecting the overall training experience. - Stacy's technique for reducing rushing in horses (you can also use it on yourself) - three reasons rushing seems like a good idea - how rushing impacts decison making...
2024-03-1318 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallTwo ways you may be disconnecting from your horse In this podcast, Stacy explains two unintentional releases riders often overlook and the challenges they cause for the horse. These are also things that can happen in your everyday life. Topics include: freezing, shrinking, and withdrawing rider's lack of awareness of the horse's experience how to solve for freezing the challenge of lowering energy, hoping to calm horse avoiding 'offending' the horse redirecting energy scared horses being un-guided determined horses and 'open doors' Noticing how these things happen in 'real life' is an amazing opportunity to understand yourself better, which will improve your time...
2024-03-0620 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallResolving Resistance: Believe your horse's feedbackEpisode 276: Resolving Resistance: Believe your horse's feedbackIn this episode, Stacy explains how to know if your horse is ready to move to a more advanced technique, or combination of cues, or when you should return to the basics. If you find yourself wondering, "Is my horse ready to move on?" or if you have moved on, but your horse shows signs of resistance….this episode is for you. Topics include: Believing your horse's signals and returning to foundational techniques Muscle Memory and Habit Response Rider muscle memory and habit response in riding Horse muscle memory and habit response dynamics Importance of co...
2024-02-2822 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy Westfall"From 'I Don't See It' to 'I See It!': Breaking Down the Barrier Between Seeing and Understanding"Stacy shares valuable insights into how riders unintentionally slow their learning. She explains why many less experienced riders skip what she calls 'step two' and try to go straight for step three. She also contrasts this by explaining how pros do the opposite. With actual tips for how to improve, and a blend of humor, expertise, and relatable anecdotes, this episode encourages riders of all levels to embrace the journey from seeing to understanding, one identifiable detail at a time. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, saddle up for an episode pack...
2024-02-0717 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallStuck at the Start: the 5 steps riders use to improve and why many get stuck on step oneIn this episode, Stacy explains the five essential steps riders undertake to enhance their horseback riding skills and their training techniques. She emphasizes how each cycle of this process contributes to the continual improvement of a rider's abilities. The focus is on the pivotal first step, where many riders often encounter obstacles. Stacy explains how this is a particular challenge for women entering the equestrian world later in life. Can you clearly identify these 5 steps in a recent situation? Can you remember a time like Stacy shared where you could not progress past one of...
2024-01-3124 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Unseen Connection: Counting Strides vs. Navigating Emotional StatesIn this episode, you'll hear a conversation that perfectly illustrates the connection between what is going on in our mind, and how it is often reflected in our experience with our horse. In this conversation, Kristen is struggling with riding transitions, specifically, 'letting the horse go' or riding bigger, and then transitioning back to collection. Listen as Stacy asks questions to find the intersection of what is going on when riding, as well as what is going on in Kristin's thinking. You'll hear the breakthrough at the end of the conversation. Also notice that sp...
2024-01-2423 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Art of Being: Embracing a Way of Being ApproachIn this episode, we will explore how to pursue a feeling state as a goal. Listen in as Stacy coaches Lauren on how to pursue her theme of 'having fun builds confidence' as it relates to showing her horse. A way of being goal is an exploration of your experience of life. The direct goal becomes the exploration of your experience, the indirect goal becomes what you choose to do, for example, showing your horse. This shift in focus transforms the show from a mere competition into a platform for self-study. Topics in...
2024-01-1728 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallRaw reactions vs. rewarded responsesIn this episode, Stacy Westfall delves into the intricacies of raw reactions versus rewarded responses, using her new yearling horse, Ember, as an example. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and influencing a horse's mental state alongside their physical actions. Stacy shares her approach to teaching Ember to stand quietly when tied, highlighting the challenge of discomfort that arises when horses make mistakes. She stresses the need for consistency in rewarding specific emotional states to transform raw reactions into desired responses. Stacy draws parallels between horse training and human behavior, encouraging listeners to be intentional in their a...
2023-12-1325 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe hidden cost of how you treat you.Dread. Disbelief… Disappointment. In this episode, Stacy shares an incident where she felt these, and she shares how understanding your responses in 'every day' life will show up when you work with your horse. Both of you will have thoughts and emotions when interacting. By knowing yourself, you can begin to see your reactions separate from your horse's reactions. Topics discussed include: Your awareness of your first response Denying reality A harsh response to mistakes Glossing over or pretending you are ok with something…that you are not currently ok with Boundaries and choices...
2023-12-0626 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallChoosing and Celebrating SuccessIn this episode of Stacy Westfall's podcast, she delves into the concept of defining and celebrating success. Stacy reflects on why she didn't mention Gabby's recent winnings, contemplating whether it was due to societal pressures and fear of being labeled as bragging. She also highlights the importance of introspection, explaining that she didn't share her winnings because her focus was on the lessons learned from smaller, more meaningful moments during her training with Gabby. Stacy emphasizes the shift in her perspective about measuring success. Instead of fixating on external achievements, she now values personal growth and the...
2023-10-2520 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallLiberty Festival, reining, and bridleless ridingIn this episode, Stacy shares insights from her recent experiences at two horse shows in Kentucky and answers a listener's question regarding preparing for a Freestyle reining class and showing bridleless. She attended a NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) show in Frankfort and the Liberty Festival at the Kentucky Horse Park, which was organized by the International Liberty Horse Association. Stacy observed that both experiences had similarities, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, exposure to different environments, and connecting with like-minded people. For the listener interested in Freestyle reining, Stacy recommends starting by participating in ILHA h...
2023-10-1834 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallBend is your friend, especially when bridlelessIn this episode, Stacy Westfall reflects on the 20th anniversary of her first bridleless competition ride, sharing insights from her journey. She begins by addressing common challenging emotions faced by riders and their underlying causes and then addresses the similarities between basic bending and advanced bending. Key points in this episode: Red flags like anxiety or concerns can feel like road blocks, but with a plan to address them, they become educational challenges. Dispelling the misconception that removing the bridle guarantees a feeling of freedom in riding; true freedom results from understanding and communication with the...
2023-10-1119 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallLessons from Outliers: Horses not on the 'traditional' pathThis episode, Stacy answers a listener's question about working with 'outliers'. Outliers are horses with unique needs or circumstances. Stacy shares insights from working with outlier horses, those not following the traditional training path. There are many valuable things that can be learned from a traditional or standard paths, which also helps us define outliers. Key Takeaways: Regularly plant tiny seeds in training. Keep requests small and rewards clear. Maintain a high success ratio. Adapt training to unique outlier situations. Seek similarities in behavior and thinking across different scenarios. Encourage horses to 'offer' answers for...
2023-10-0428 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallHow do I get my horse to keep doing it longer?Have you ever wondered, but how do I get him to do it for longer? Maybe you want your horse to keep loping until you tell him to stop. Maybe you want him to stand until you ask him to go. Maybe you show in western dressage, and your horse keeps popping his head up during the free walk…and you want him to keep it down until you ask him to bring it back up. A big part of getting a horse to maintain something starts with the horse's first response. Repea...
2023-08-0216 min
Train Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallPrivate Coaching with Stacy WestfallIf you’re ready to increase the effectiveness of your training and strengthen your relationship with your horse, I invite you to apply for my Advance at Home program. During the program, we will work one on one, and you will learn to understand the training process from your horses point of view, you’ll learn to be clear and effective with your cues, and we will take a closer look at your day to day habits that are slowing your progress with your horse. Just head over to stacywestfall.com and click on Advance at Hom...
2023-03-2000 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallGetting started in reining-A conversation with Jesse Westfall Season 8Is it possible to get started in reining and fully train your own horse from start to show? Today's guest says 'yes' and he has the track record to prove it. Today, I would introduce you to my husband and my coach, Jesse Westfall. Over the years Jesse has helped many people get started in reining and he specializes in helping people who want to train their own horse. Listen as we discuss the process.
2020-06-1738 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallDiscussing quality, quantity, and boredom during horse trainingEpisode 78: A listener called in a question about training her first two-year-old. She is struggling to find the balance between quality vs quantity and also a concern of causing boredom during the training process. Stacy explains her views on finding a balance between quality and quantity beginning with the idea that quality always matters and quantity is often part of 'seasoning' a horse. Stacy also explains her view that boredom is GOOD for horses...but that the caller may be confusing signs of frustration or confusion with boredom.
2020-05-1330 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallEmpowering riders, respecting space, finding balance between go & whoa aidsEp 73: Listen as a caller describes how she changed her lunging experience in a matter of days. Stacy outlines the steps that made this 'leap' in learning possible. Hazel calls in and asks how to get her school horse to respect her space more. Stacy gives her three different suggestions. Amy has questions about how to get her ranch horse to 'wait' a bit more during the trail obstacle phase. Stacy explains how she teaches this type of 'wait' using three different examples: lunging, riding a nervous horse and when teaching the sliding stop. Stacy's goal is to empower...
2020-04-0842 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallUsing More Leg on Hot HorsesEpisode 70: Question: After warming up and we're beginning to work, I have a really hard time keeping his gait consistent, usually start out slow and easy. But as we continue on, he has a tendency to increase his speed and will tense up and occasionally throw his head. Whenever I ask for a change of gait, especially downward transitions in, it most often happens during the lope. It also happens when I'm lunging him prior to riding, and I would like to know your opinion on how my contributing to his craziness and inconsistent gait and how can I...
2020-03-1846 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy Westfall5 Tips for Motivated RidingEpisode 60: Stacy shares what is going on in her barn with her horses. She shares how she is using the techniques and ideas that she has been teaching in the podcast...in her own barn. Stacy starts by answering a listener's question about motivation: "Hi, Stacy. My name is Andrea. And my question is, how do you just get motivated? To get out there with your horse when you feel like you're all alone and you just really don't have that encouragement. From others. I don't really know a lot of horsey people. How do you...
2020-01-0828 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallExperiencing A 'Bad' Riding LessonEpisode 59: Stacy and Ginny discuss the power of using curiosity to overcome challenges. Stacy tells about here experience with a 'bad' riding lesson. Ginny discusses getting bucked off a horse she trusted and having to decide if she should sell the horse. Stacy & Ginny discuss the power of the rider's mind to make different choices and how that can impact our riding, relationship and enjoyment of our horses.
2020-01-0151 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallRide with Faith...and TrainingEpisode 57: Stacy explains that she has been pondering the answer she gave to a listener last week and she has more to add this week. She discusses the role of faith in horse training as well as mistakes she sees people make when they use the word 'faith' as applied to their horse. Stacy also discusses how 'good-natured' horses can still hurt people and why this happens.
2019-12-1813 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallQ&A: Rescue horses, boring riders, why striking & kicking?Episode 56: I answer listener questions and receive some feedback from Ron. I answered a question for Ron in a previous episode and he calls in to let me know that he has tried the methods and they are working well. Question 1: Hi, my name is Virginia. I'm calling from Westchester County, New York. Thank you so much for your podcast and learning so much. I recently rescued a gelding they think is between 15 and 18 years old. We think he has a new century. We don't know too much about his history, though. He came to th...
2019-12-1131 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallChoosing saddle pads, cinch/girth, billets & breast collarsEpisode 54: I'm discussing several items saddle pads, cinches or girths, billets and breast collars. I'll explain what I use and why as well as recommendations. If you want to see everything I'm using, watch any of the most recent videos I've been putting out on YouTube. You'll find those videos as well as photos on StacyWestfall.com. I also started something called Stacy's Stuff, which is a series of pages on my site that shows the items I'm currently using in my barn with full-page write-ups about what I'm using and why.
2019-11-2738 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallTack: Halters, Lead Ropes, Lunge LinesIn this season, I'm going to explain some of the choices in tack and equipment available. I'll also share what I'm using and why. Today's focus is some of the items used when leading the horse. Things like halters, lead ropes, and lunge lines. I'm also going to introduce you to a friend of mine who owns a tack store. I'm also going to close out the episode with a sad story. I'll also give you the biggest training tip that matches this discussion. Equipment is such a huge topic that it's even a challenge to break it down.
2019-11-0642 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallFinding Work/Life Balance with Stacy Westfall and Ginny TelegoI am live today with Ginny Telego recording from the Loko Bean in Loudonville, Ohio. Today is a milestone, because this is episode 50, so I thought I'd do something different and share our special conversation with you. We are both very busy, so we kick off the show talking about something everyone struggles with. Work life balance. In fact, I don't even see balance as something that's possible. Life has seasons. We may have balance for a moment, but it's more about adapting and moving from one season to the next. We talk about what balance really...
2019-10-301h 12Train Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallLocking and Unlocking Traits in Your HorseI know your horse is smart. Do you know that your horse is smart? I hope you do, because today I'm sharing something that will be incredibly useful to you if you think your horse is smart. If you're not sure if your horse is smart, you can always go back and listen to episode 22 where I explain my views of going beyond prey versus predator. In this episode, I'll explain how to lock and unlock certain traits in your horse. Remember how the old school combination locks were difficult at first and then became easier over...
2019-10-0923 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallImproving Your Horses SteeringHave you ever been trail riding and realized that your right leg was passing very close to a tree? Have you pulled the reins to the left, and the horses neck went to the left but your leg still hit the tree? This is because horses don't always follow their necks. They follow their shoulders. Most of us have learned that if we want the horse to go to the right, we pull on the right rein and if we want the horse to go to the left, we pull on the left rein. Most of the...
2019-09-1129 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallWhy I Do Not Disengage My Horse's HipsThere are times when you may need to make an emergency stop with your horse. One way to do this is to disengage the horse's hips. This is something that I do not do in my training, and today, I'm going to tell you why. First, I'm going to explain exactly what I mean by disengaging the horse's hip. I'm also going to discuss the difference when riding and doing groundwork. When learning about horses, I encourage you to look at many programs including other people's. When watching other programs look at the form to function and...
2019-08-2127 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallThe Two Most Basic Cues When Riding a HorseIt's a bold statement to say there are two simple cues that fix most issues. When I say most issues I mean things like bucking, rearing, head tossing, and a lot of the issues that we experienced under saddle. You might wonder how it's possible that two simple cues can fix most of those issues? In this episode, I explain the first two cues that I teach a horse when I'm riding them under a saddle. I'll talk about these cues in three different phases and from the horses point of view and the rider's point of...
2019-08-1433 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy Westfall3 Reasons to Do Groundwork With Your HorseA big part of training is establishing communication in a safe way. In this episode, I share three reasons why you should do groundwork. I share how to safely work with horses at different stages and one of the biggest aspects of communication which is reading body language. I also introduce a new segment with equine veterinarian Dr. Monty McInturff. Over the years, I've spent a lot of time with great veterinarians. There is routine care, maintenance, and early diagnostic care. Seeing so many horses in training is kind of like being a...
2019-07-2439 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallListener Question: Untraining a Horse or Adding Layers?This week I'm answering a listener question. First, I'm going to answer with the theory, and then I'm going to teach you all how to become a detective. The listener wants to know if she can 'untrain' the horse's desire to run full speed during mounted shooting competitions. She wants the horse to slow down or give her more control. Some of the questions I ask incluse: Is the trigger only at shows or can you trigger a low level version of this at home? When he gets amped up…what aids does he get resistant to? Do...
2019-06-1920 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallCorrecting Behavior We Dislike In Our HorsesLet's talk about the idea of correcting a horse for behavior that we don't like. I'm going to share three examples of corrections, a different way to think about corrections, and a story to help you remember it all. How smooth are your corrections? If your horse anticipates your correction, does it make him better or does it make him worse? I'm going to share some examples of corrections that I want you to ponder. Take the time to think about what these corrections would look like from the horse's point of view. The ultimate goal is...
2019-06-1212 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallIs Your Horse Training Routine Dead?How do you know if your training routine is dead? Last week, I talked about how horses can "learn how to learn." This week, I'm going to take that concept a little further and explain how I use training cycles to influence the horse both physically and mentally. In episode 25, I talked about anticipation in a positive and negative way, and "the horse anticipating the end of the ride." Some people may take this as the horse doesn't enjoy being ridden, but actually the horse anticipating the end of the ride is such a clear reward. It's...
2019-05-2912 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallIs Your Horse AnticipatingAnticipation is one of those ideas that is a double-edged sword. Is it a friend or Foe? At first glance, people think of anticipation as negative, I think it might be more positive to think of it as something we can balance on the teeter-totter. Sometimes, I call it trying too hard. I want to help you guys think out of the box and not label things in a negative way. When we label anticipation as trying too hard, keep in mind that sometimes the horse will try too hard in ways we want and sometimes in...
2019-05-0815 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallIs Your Horse Being Creative?This podcast is in response to a listener question. She asks, "what do you mean by a creative horse?" This is a great topic as we continue our season on the horses mind. I'm very specific when I describe horses. I may say a horse has questions. or a horse is creative. I don't want to describe a horse in a way that will pass judgement such as calling it a problem horse. A creative horse can be a horse that would traditionally be described as a problem horse, but it doesn't have to be...
2019-05-0117 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallYour Horse Has QuestionsI'm explaining something that was a game-changer for me and my horse. When I share this topic with people at clinics, I see an instant change in them and their horse. Did you know that your horse is always asking you questions? Watching horses in the wild, you see them ask each other questions about leadership. They also do the same thing with you. The good news is that once you understand that a change in your horses body language is him asking you a questions, you can answer those questions and even have conversations with your...
2019-04-2418 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallBeyond Prey vs Predator: You're Underestimating Your HorseWelcome to season 3 where we are going to talk about the horses mind. There are two things I'm going to talk about today. The first one is that you might just be underestimating your horse. The second thing I'm going to talk about is moving beyond the prey predator model. Do you think you underestimate your horses mental capabilities? As a kid, I remember people talking about horses mental abilities in a limiting way. The more I understand horses, the more amazed I am at how much they understand. I explore this and the prey predator model...
2019-04-1711 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallYour Horse Needs You to Do ThisIt's time to wrap up season two on the rider's body. I covered a lot of ground on the last two seasons. We talked about the rider's mind and the rider's body. I'm even more excited about the next two seasons which are all about the horse. I play a preview of some of the questions I'll be answering and share how you can ask your questions. The riders body is consistently the weakest link that I see out of the four different areas of the rider's mind, the rider's body, the horse's mind, and the horse's...
2019-04-1009 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallImproving Your Aids When Riding Your HorseToday, I'm talking about how the rider's mind and the rider's body are both equally required for improvement. I'll be talking about balancing your aids and your mindset. A listener asks about allowing something to flow and making something happen. This is all about balancing. You need to have a mindset where you can back up the requests you make. I explore this topic with listener emails, my own experience, and what I've observed watching horses and people. Show Notes [00:49] A listener email: James asks about the catch between allowing something t...
2019-03-2019 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallQ & A: Evaluating Horse, Confidence & Desire, Limiting BeliefsIn this Q & A episode, I am going to cover evaluating a new horse, overcoming loss of confidence and desire, and how to overcome the limiting belief that horses hate being ridden. Show Notes [01:13] Question one is from Leann in Canada. She asks my perspective about acquiring a new horse and how to best assess which phase the horse is in and what needs to be done to bring the horse to a new level of understanding? [01:58] I keep two things in mind at all times when evaluating a horse. Number one is...
2019-01-3043 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallRiders should make mistakes in the right directionToday, I discuss why riders should make mistakes. I'm going to break it down into three different things. Why you should make mistakes. Which mistake you should really try to avoid. And how to measure the direction of your mistakes. During my clinics, I often tell riders that they should make mistakes in the right direction. This implies that it is okay to make mistakes, and there is some kind of way to measure the mistakes that you are making and how that's working out for you. Listen on to learn how to make your mistakes work...
2019-01-2315 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallHow riders view pressure will affect their horsesIssues that affect the way a rider thinks has been the topic for this podcast season. This episode is about something that you should spend some time contemplating when you are at home sitting on the couch. If you do, it will change the way you ride. This topic is pressure. How do you react when you hear me say pressure? What flashes in your mind? What do you picture when I say pressure and horse? Understanding that a horse doesn't feel pressure the way that you do, and the right pressure will allow your horse to...
2019-01-1615 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallSetting SMART goals for you and your horseIt's the start of the year and time to talk about goal setting. I'm going to talk about SMART goals or goals that you have control of and accidental goals. These are goals that you can't control the outcome of but you can set yourself up for success with them. I explain what a SMART goal is and how it applies to horse training. I also share how a goal setting mindset shift resulted in how I look at competing in horse competitions. Breaking things down into measurable things that you can control can lead to surprising...
2019-01-0217 minTrain Your Own Horse with Stacy WestfallFear vs Danger: Riders can improve if they know the differenceEpisode 1: Welcome to season one of the Stacy Westfall podcast. I'm Stacy Westfall, and I'll be teaching you why horses do what they do and action steps for creating clear confident communication with your horses. In this first season, I'll be discussing issues that frequently affect the way that riders think. I use a tool called the four square model. The purpose of this model is to simplify complex problems and break them down into smaller actionable pieces. The four quadrants include the rider's mind, the rider's body, the horses mind, and the horse's body. Season one...
2018-12-1212 min